If you’re tired of Googling ‘car shipping companies near me’ only to meet high costs, you need to learn how to negotiate with them. Let’s see how it’s done:
Is it Possible to Negotiate Quotes With Car Shipping Companies?
You definitely can haggle with companies that ship cars. Although the auto transport industry runs on a what-you-see-is-what-you-get model, there’s always wiggle room.
Your success with shipping car companies largely depends on your timing and flexibility. Most shippers tell customers that prices aren’t set in stone. However, you’ll need to understand how the industry works.
Every shipping company for cars operates on supply and demand. When carriers have empty spots, they’re more likely to cut deals. Your best bet? Be flexible with your dates.
Remember one crucial thing: super-low prices can be red flags. Legitimate car transport service providers have fixed costs they can’t avoid.
The sweet spot is finding companies to ship cars that balance fair prices with reliable service. Don’t just focus on the bottom line. Consider their track record and insurance coverage, too. Sometimes, paying a bit more upfront saves you headaches later.
Pro tip: Even if you hire the best company to ship car, book during mid-week. Rates often spike on weekends when everyone’s trying to move their vehicles.
4 Quotes Negotiation Strategies With Car Shipping Companies
Even the best shipping car company will work with you on price. The key is knowing exactly what cards you’re holding.
1. Smart Payment Choices
Carriers love cash payments because they avoid those pesky processing fees. You’re looking at saving 1.5-3.5% in card processing fees immediately.
Just remember: even the best shipping car company needs some security. They’ll usually want a deposit on your card first. Think $150-250 to lock in your spot.
2. Timing Is Everything
What may be the best company to ship a car during summer might not be your best bet in winter. Seasons matter big time in this business. Fall and spring? That’s your sweet spot for deals.
Also, lock things down 2-3 weeks ahead so they have enough time to find a carrier at a lower price.
3. Location Strategy
When hiring the best car shipping company, consider terminal-to-terminal shipping. Yes, it means dropping off and picking up your car at specific locations, but you can save some bucks.
Meeting spots matter. Big parking lots are perfect. Tight residential streets? Not so much. You’ll often get better rates just by picking smart locations.
4. Choose Your Service Type
Open carriers are your budget-friendly choice – we’re talking 30-40% cheaper than enclosed transport.
But here’s the deal: if you’re moving a luxury ride or classic car, enclosed shipping is worth every penny. The extra protection matters more than the savings.
| Service Type | Cost Difference | Best For |
| Open Transport | Base Rate | Standard Vehicles |
| Enclosed Transport | +30-40% | Luxury/Classic Cars |
Mix and match these strategies based on your situation, and you’ll see those quotes start dropping.
7 Additional Ways to Save Money on Car Transport Service
1. Discount Programs You Might Not Know About
Car shipping companies love giving discounts to certain groups. Military members often score the biggest breaks, usually 10-15% off, just by showing their ID. College students aren’t far behind with 5-10% discounts, and seniors can grab some sweet deals, too.
| Customer Type | Typical Discount Range | Required Documentation |
| Military | 10-15% | Valid Military ID |
| Students | 5-10% | Current Student ID |
| Return Customers | 5-15% | Previous Order Number |
| Multiple Vehicles | 10-20% | Same Order Booking |
2. Smart Vehicle Prep That Saves Money
Your prep work can seriously cut down shipping costs. For instance, keep just a quarter gas tank – you’re paying to ship fuel weight otherwise.
And make sure your car runs! Non-operating vehicles cost more to ship because they need special equipment.
3. Not Comparing Quotes
Getting multiple quotes is crucial even if you find the best company to ship a car. Grab at least 3-5 quotes and line them up side by side.
Look beyond the bottom line—some companies might offer perks like a free wash or rental coverage if your car arrives late.
4. Think Beyond Price To Ensure They Don’t Cut Corners
Hiring the best car shipping company means looking beyond dollars and cents. Think of it like buying insurance—the cheapest option isn’t always the smartest choice.
| What to Check | Why It Matters |
| Cargo Coverage | ($100k at least) protects against damage during transit |
| Pickup/Delivery Windows | Ensures reliable scheduling |
| Cancellation Terms | Saves money if plans change |
| Claims Process | Makes damage resolution smoother |
5. Get Quotes in Writing & Read Fine-Print
Even if you’re dealing with what may be the best company to ship a car, get everything in writing.
Verbal promises disappear into thin air when problems pop up. Save those emails, snap photos of your car’s condition, get a copy of the Bill of Lading, and read that contract like you’re studying for a test.
6. Rushing Due to Time Pressure
Look, we get it – sometimes you need your car moved ASAP. But rushing with even the best shipping car company can cost you big time.
People often panic and accept sky-high rates or skip checking basic credentials. Take a breath and at least do a quick FMCSA and BBB check.
7. Not Understanding Industry Standards
Knowledge is power when hiring the best car shipping company. Most legit companies ask for a $150-250 deposit. If someone wants way more or way less, that’s a red flag.
Delivery usually takes 1-7 days, depending on distance. Prices jump during summer and around holidays – that’s just how it works.
Can You Negotiate Rates With International Car Shipping Companies?
Here’s the straight scoop on international shipping – it’s a whole different ball game. These companies move hundreds of cars simultaneously across oceans, so they’re not as flexible with pricing as domestic truckers.
Think about it – there were only about 109,000 merchant vessels worldwide in early 2024. That’s not many ships when you consider global demand. But don’t lose hope!
Being flexible with your delivery timeline can help. Consider RoRo shipping—it’s usually cheaper than container shipping.
The Best Company to Ship a Car Will Never Cut Corners to Reduce Costs:
The next time you Google ‘car shipping company near me’ and ask for quotes. Never accept their first offer from car transport services. There’s always room to negotiate.